SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA.- The City of Sydney is inviting photographers to submit works for the 2005 Sydney Life photography exhibition which carries a prize of $5000. The works of the 26 finalists chosen by the selection panel will be blown up to 2.3 x 3.5 metres and suspended in Hyde Park along the tree-lined central walkway during the Art & About festival from October 4 - 23, 2005.

City of Sydney CEO Peter Seamer said the exhibition was designed to recognise talented photographers and to engage and intrigue the audience.

"Last year we received submissions from 350 photographers," Mr Seamer said. "The entries provided wonderful snapshots of life within one of the world's most vibrant cities - such as an afternoon of lawn bowls, children playing in Redfern and events celebrating Sydney's unique and diverse cultures."

Sydney Life aims to exhibit artwork by emerging, mid career and established photographers, providing public recognition to these artists at all stages of their careers.

Finalists will be selected by a distinguished panel of judges comprised of Sandy Edwards (Curator Sydney Life and Co-director of Stills Gallery), Russell Storer (Curator, Museum of Contemporary Art) and Patrick Corrigan AM (Arts Patron).

Sydney Life is part of Art & About - a fantastic free feast of exhibitions, events and activities to foster art and brighten the city.

To obtain an entry form for Sydney Life and competition specifications, visit www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au or telephone Victoria Johnstone on (02) 9265-9062. Entries close on Tuesday, July 26 2005. Photos available of last year's finalists and works displayed in Hyde Park.